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Carnosic Acid

Also known as: carnosic acid, benzenediol diterpene, Rosmarinus officinalis extract, Carnosic Acid

Overview

Carnosic acid is a naturally occurring benzenediol diterpene found predominantly in rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis). It is recognized for its strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The compound has gained attention for potential therapeutic applications in cancer treatment, particularly prostate cancer, cognitive enhancement, and gastrointestinal health. Research indicates that carnosic acid can induce endoplasmic reticulum stress, leading to the degradation of specific proteins, including the androgen receptor. Although promising in vitro and in vivo studies exist, more comprehensive human clinical trials are needed to fully elucidate its pharmacokinetics and therapeutic effects. Its presence in rosemary extract contributes to its popularity as a dietary supplement.

Benefits

Carnosic acid exhibits several evidence-based benefits. Primarily, it has demonstrated the ability to degrade the androgen receptor, showing promise for prostate cancer treatment. Secondary effects include its potential role in reducing inflammation and enhancing intestinal barrier integrity in models of colitis. Research indicates notable improvements in cognitive function in animal studies, although effect sizes vary and time course data in humans remain understudied. The strongest evidence supports its utility in cancer-related contexts and cognitive enhancement, with significant findings suggesting reduction in tumor growth and enhancements in cognitive outcomes when tested in animal models.

How it works

Carnosic acid primarily exerts its effects by inducing endoplasmic reticulum stress, which leads to increased proteasomal degradation of proteins such as the androgen receptor in prostate cancer cells. This mechanism may impact cancer cell growth and contribute to cognitive enhancement by affecting pathways linked to cellular stress response. Its ability to modulate these pathways underscores its potential therapeutic roles in both cancer treatment and cognitive function improvement.

Side effects

Carnosic acid is generally considered safe when consumed as part of rosemary extract. Specific safety data for isolated carnosic acid is limited. Common side effects are not well-documented, but high doses may lead to gastrointestinal upset. Rare side effects have not been reported in the literature. There are potential drug interactions, especially with medications metabolized through similar pathways, but specific interactions remain understudied. No contraindications have been clearly established; however, caution is advised for pregnant and lactating individuals due to the absence of safety data. People with certain medical conditions or those taking medications should consult healthcare providers before use.

Dosage

Currently, a minimum effective dose of carnosic acid for humans has not been established. Animal studies have employed doses ranging from 10 to 200 mg/kg, but human dosage remains undefined. No maximum safe dose is established, and timing considerations have not been specified. Carnosic acid is typically found in rosemary extract, and bioavailability can vary based on formulation and individual metabolism. There are no identified required cofactors for its absorption.

FAQs

What is the best way to consume carnosic acid?

Carnosic acid is commonly consumed as part of rosemary extract, though isolated supplements are not widely available.

Is carnosic acid safe to take?

While generally safe when part of rosemary extract, more research is needed on isolated carnosic acid for definitive safety data.

Are there specific timing recommendations for taking carnosic acid?

There are no specific timing recommendations for carnosic acid supplementation.

What benefits can I expect from taking carnosic acid?

Potential benefits include improved cognitive function and anti-cancer effects, but solid human data is currently limited.

Is carnosic acid a proven treatment for any medical condition?

Carnosic acid is not a proven treatment for any condition in humans; research is still in early stages.

Research Sources

https://academic.oup.com/carcin/article-abstract/37/8/827/1744629?redirectedFrom=fulltext – This carcinogenesis study demonstrated that carnosic acid degrades the androgen receptor via endoplasmic reticulum stress, which may be useful in prostate cancer treatment, highlighting a significant reduction in tumor growth in vivo using human prostate cancer cell lines.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33673488/ – This pharmacokinetic analysis investigated the absorption and metabolism of carnosic acid in mice, showing potential benefits for gastrointestinal health with rosemary extract improving intestinal barrier integrity.
https://www.scielo.br/j/bjmbr/a/QKXXGmgbY7mdHZ4fRQjz63s/ – A systematic review indicated that rosemary extracts, including carnosic acid, have demonstrated improvement in cognitive function in animal models, despite substantial heterogeneity among studies.
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/13/3/773 – This research discusses the role of dietary polyphenols, including carnosic acid, in health and suggests its association with various positive outcomes, though human clinical data remain insufficient.
https://www.mdpi.com/2297-8739/10/9/481 – This study explores various phytochemicals, including carnosic acid, emphasizing their antioxidant properties and potential health benefits, with a focus on their mechanisms of action and necessary further research.